Al Ain have booked their place in the final of this year’s FIFA Club World Cup after they defeated River Plate of Argentina on penalties. They will now play the winner between Kashima Antlers and defending champions Real Madrid.
The host stunned the Argentine side as early as the third minute when Marcus Berge’s header found the back of the net.
But, the lead lasted for only eight minutes as River Plate equalized and took the lead through a brace from Santos Borre.
The home side fought back and eventually equalized in the early stages of the second half through their Brazilian playmaker Caio.
River Plate would have won within regulation time when they were awarded a penalty but the ball ricocheted off the wood work.
After full and extra time the match went into penalties and Al Ain goalkeeper, Khalid Elsa became the hero once again as he stopped River Plate’s fifth penalty to take his side to Saturday’s final.
